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Tame your child’s unruly hair with our list of the best hair gels for kids. Since children run around outdoors, their hair can get tangled and frizzy easily. So, a good-quality hair gel can keep the flyaways in control and give your child a neat, polished look. These gels are safe for your child’s delicate hair and keep it soft and nourished. Moreover, they are available for different hair types, including straight and curly hair, to meet your child’s needs. However, choosing the right one may be challenging with different products available. So, browse our list to learn about the benefits and features to find a gel that suits your child’s hair type.
Top Picks
Is It Safe To Use Hair Gel For Kids?
Experts do not recommend using any beauty or skincare products for children. However, there is also no defined age when they can start using hair products. If you are planning to use hair gel for kids, then you must understand that the skin is going to absorb the ingredients. Though most hair gels and hair mousses are free of harmful chemicals, sometimes products with all-natural ingredients can also cause allergic reactions.
Therefore, it is always advisable to check with a dermatologist if you can use hair gel for your child. Also, always conduct a sensitivity test before fully using the gel. To test, apply the product on your kid’s forearm and wait for 24 hours. If there is any kind of redness or swelling on the skin, then that hair gel may not be safe for your child. But if there is no such reaction, then the hair gel can be safe to use.
12 Best Hair Gels For Kids
1. Best Anti-Dandruff: Kanica Gel With Green Tea And Aloe Vera
Kanica Gel is a suitable substitute for unpleasant hair Oils for your children, as per several reviewers. It contains green tea and aloe vera, making it safe for your child’s delicate hair. One of the best gels for toddlers’ hair, it will give frizz-free and healthy hair. This hair care product helps strengthen the hair from within and prevents dandruff by moisturizing the locks. Your child’s hair won’t feel sticky or hard, and the gel provides a natural and flexible texture for different hairstyles.
Pros
- Toxin- and chemical-free hair gel
- Vitamin-rich formula
- Keeps the scalp hydrated
- Pleasant smell
Cons
- Cannot be used on wet hair
- Might leave white clumps
"Its smooth consistency makes it easy to apply to my child’s hair, and I love that it leaves no residue. It has a noticeable fragrance, but it's not overpowering. Its formula also feels gentle and has come in handy for hairstyles requiring medium hold."
2. Best With Aloe Vera: Little Roseberry Hair Gel For Kids
The dependable hair gel for kids is packed with benefits of aloe vera for hair nourishment. Free of chemicals and enriched with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, this styling product is one of the best hair gels for kids that is also baby-safe. In addition, this scent-free hair gel for kids is free of toxins.
Also Recommended By: Mom Dot and Experienced Mommy have also listed Little Roseberry Hair Gel For Kids in their top 10.[1]9 BEST HAIR GEL FOR KIDS – AWESOME HAIR GELS FOR STYLIN’ KIDS!. Mom Dot. , The 8 Best Baby Hair Gels to Try This Year. Experienced Mommy https://www.momdot.com/best-hair-gel-for-kids/, https://www.experiencedmommy.com/best-baby-hair-gel/
Pros
- Made from witch hazel and organic aloe vera juice
- Vitamin-enriched formula for delicate hair
- Vegan and no animal testing
- 100% toxin-free
- Free of dyes
- Suitable for kids of all ages
- Promotes hair growth
Cons
- Contains EDTA
- May not have a pleasant smell
Did you know?3. Best Water Soluble: Hip Peas Natural Hair Styling Balm
Style those difficult locks with the plant-based formulation that is completely organic. This clinically tested hair styling product for kids has a light hold and texture and is completely safe for children of all age groups. It is among the best gels for toddler hair and has also earned the Parent Tested Parent Approved (PTPA) Seal of Approval.
Also Recommended By: The Hip Peas Natural Hair Styling Balm has also made it to the list by Mom Dot and Experienced Mommy.[1]10 BEST HAIR GEL FOR KIDS – AWESOME HAIR GELS FOR STYLIN’ KIDS!. Mom Dot., The 8 Best Baby Hair Gels to Try This Year. Experienced Mommy https://www.momdot.com/best-hair-gel-for-kids/, https://www.experiencedmommy.com/best-baby-hair-gel/
Pros
- Natural, botanical formulation
- Hypoallergenic formula
- No animal testing
- Free of toxins and chemicals
- Water soluble
- Suitable for all types of hair
- Safe and gentle hair styling balm with light hold
Cons
- May leave a white layer if not rubbed well before applying
- May not work for long hair
"I found this balm to be suitable for everyday use. It renders a neat, groomed look without being sticky or greasy. It did take me a while to get used to its thick consistency. However, its hypoallergenic make has made it a reliable choice."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
About 567 reviewers on Amazon have given their seal of approval to the product.
Kanica Gel With Green Tea And Aloe Vera Best Anti-Dandruff | Little Roseberry Hair Gel For Kids Best With Aloe Vera | Hip Peas Natural Hair Styling Balm Best Water Soluble | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Type | Normal | Fine to Normal Hair | All |
| Dimensions | - | 2 x 2 x 6 inches | 3 x 3 x 1 inches |
| Weight | - | 4 Ounces | 2 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 51 | 666 | 567 |
| Price | $13.99 | $14.99 | $12.95 |
4. Best For Curly And Wavy Hair: Curly Kids Curly Gel Moisturizer
Developed for kinky, frizzy, wavy, and curly hair, this gel can be used daily to tame your child’s coarse or stubborn hair. This hair care product adds shine to hair and doesn’t leave it feeling greasy. This is also effective in taking care of the damaged locks. Take a look at this review video to learn more about this product.
Pros
- Provides maximum moisture without making the hair sticky
- Has a light hold
- Amazing formulation for daily use
- Adds shine to the hair and offers visible results
- Minimizes damage and breakage
- Good for braids and ponytails
Cons
- May take a lot of product for desired results
- May leave a white residue
"Incorporating this setting gel into my child’s haircare regime has allowed her to flaunt her bouncy curls without the heaviness. In addition, it keeps her mane hydrated while adding a subtle sheen. All in all, it is a great option that improves the look and manageability of her hair."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 69 positive reviews on Amazon are proof that this product meets customers' expectations.
5. Best Vegan Formulation: Fresh Monster Natural Hair Gel
Bid adieu to bad hair days with this hair styling gel for kids. This lightweight and flexible hair care product for toddlers can be used for any kind of style. Hypoallergenic and free of chemicals, the dermatologist-tested formulation of this vegan and natural product works on damp as well as dry hair. You can make a braid or just spike up hair with this hair gel for kids.
Pros
- Free of BPA, parabens, and dyes
- Clinically tested and suitable for sensitive skin
- Cruelty-free hair gel for kids
- Alcohol-free formulation
- Adds shine to hair
- Suitable for children of all ages
Cons
- May not hold up spikes for long durations
- May not work for flyaways
"I got this hair styling gel for its hypoallergenic formulation and natural ingredients. Though the hold may not last all day, it is still a worthwhile investment. Also, I appreciate that it is dermatologist-tested."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 255 customers on Amazon have opined that this is one of the best products in its category.
Do remember6. Best Cruelty-Free: Snip-its Silly Slicker Kids Hair Gel
Hairstyling was never so easy. This impressive hold hair gel for kids lets you set the hair to perfection all day long. Made of all natural ingredients, this hair care product has not been tested on animals and guarantees visible results.
Pros
- No-flake formula that doesn’t make hair stiff or crunchy
- Has a soothing tropical fragrance
- Medium to strong hold
- 100% toxin- and chemical-free hair gel
- Cruelty-free
- Natural formulation made of allergen-free ingredients
Cons
- May leave the hair looking wet
"This hair gel offers a commendable hold that keeps my munchkin's hairstyles intact throughout the day. It can leave an ashy residue if overused. Nonetheless, its non-greasy formula is perfect for his hair type and keeps the pillowcases from staining."
7. Best For Managing Curls: SoCozy Behave Styling Gel For Kids Hair
Set any kind of hair to perfection with one of the best hair gels for kids. Whether it is stubborn frizzy hair or unmanageable curly hair, you can set them all with this kids’ styling gel. Lightweight combination with ripe pear scent leaves the hair feeling so fresh, smooth, and shiny. This review video helps you know more about the product.
Pros
- Made with bergamot and lily of the valley
- Non-toxic and gluten-free formulation
- Adds shine and smoothness to hair
- Medium hold
- Provides frizz-free, healthy hair
- Manages natural curls to perfection
- Enriched with soy protein
Cons
- May feel sticky
- May not work for long hair
"This product has made it hassle-free to manage my little girl’s curls. It does a great job of locking her natural curls without the stiffness. And the Vitamin E content has also made her locks look healthy."
8. Best Fragrance: Maya Mari Kids Hair Styling Gel
Ideal for different textured and curly hair, this lightweight styling gel makes your kid’s hair soft and adds shine, making them more manageable. This professional-grade paraben-free gel containing coconut fruit extract offers medium hold and has a fruity scent of pineapple, pear, and green apple. This affordable hair gel for kids allows you to manage natural curls and helps reshape the hair by adding a little water. The net quantity of the product is 12 fl oz.
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Non-sticky
- Reduces frizz
- Easy to apply
Cons
- Might leave white flakes
- Might not be long-lasting
"Its cruelty-free build was the first thing that appealed to me. It does have a sticky texture at the onset, but once absorbed, it adds a shine to the hair without the heaviness. Plus, the reduction in frizz is much appreciated."
9. Best Alcohol-Free: Lane & Co. Hair Paste
The Lane & Co. hair paste is suitable for all hair types including straight and curly hair and is free of toxic chemicals. This dermatologist-tested paste includes vanilla extracts for a refreshing and pleasant smell. It comes in a small jar, which is easy to carry around and helps care for your child’s hair needs while traveling. Made from a blend of coconut oil, organic shea butter, and cocoa butter, this hair gel helps manage unruly locks and restore natural curls by taming cowlicks, flyaways, and crib hair.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Nourishing ingredients
- No stiffness
- Provides moisturized and healthy hair
Cons
- May not offer a firm hold
- May not suit thick hair
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has earned its stripes, with over 122 reviews on Amazon.
10. Best Natural Fragrance: Original Sprout Natural Anti-Frizz Hair Gel
Loved by moms as well as professionals, this vegan hair gel for kids is a combination of organic ingredients that result in soft and shiny hair. Suitable for all hair types, this safe and effective natural product is doctor-recommended and completely secure, so don’t hesitate to try out some glamorous celebrity-inspired hairstyles!
Pros
- Made of gluten-free ingredients
- Medium to light hold
- Makes hair soft and strong
- Prevents breakage
- Natural tropical fragrance
Cons
- May cause flakiness
- Might cause greasiness
"I love this hair gel’s non-irritating and non-greasy composition. While it may not be the best for creating spikes, it effectively tames frizz and makes my child’s hair look healthy. Its gentle pH level and lack of drying agents are also a bonus."
11. Best For Lice Prevention: Fairy Tales Rosemary Repel Styling Gel
Scientifically formulated with a host of all-natural ingredients, such as rosemary, citronella, tea tree oil, and geranium oil, the Fairy Tales Rosemary Repel styling product is great for styling your child’s hair and protecting the hair and scalp from lice. It is also infused with jojoba and chamomile that soothe the scalp and make hair soft.
Pros
- Free of gluten, soy, dairy, and nuts
- Hydrating formula
- Paraben-, phthalate, and sulfate-free
- Non-GMO
- Not tested on animals
- Suitable for daily use
Cons
- Gel may be a bit sticky
- May flake
"The hair gel ensures my toddler's locks look neat without the crunch. Though it may not withstand high-energy play, I have noticed that it has kept lice away from her hair. In short, I recommend it for its safe, effective, and protective composition."
12. Best Hold: Hot Tot Styling Gel
Approved by pediatricians and dermatologists, this toddler hair gel works on all hair types and keeps the hair frizz-free. The styling product has a gel-like consistency, making it easy to use. It offers medium hold and is made from glycerin, organic Japanese green tea extract, and vitamin B5. This kids’ hair gel is also rich in antioxidants, making it a safe choice for children’s healthy hair.
Pros
- Does not leave white chunks or clumps in the hair
- Long-lasting
- Water soluble
- Keeps the hair and scalp moisturized
Cons
- May make fine hair slightly stiff
- Some may not like the fragrance
"The styling gel works well with my little one's sensitive skin. It even manages to hold varied hairdos without making the hair crunchy. Just remember to apply a small amount to keep the hair from getting weighed down."
How To Style Kids’ Hair?
Kids look neater with nicely styled hair. Just imagine that your child is wearing the most fashionable outfit, but their hair is messy, only to ruin the overall look. On the other hand, if the hair is done right and even if the outfit is simple and ordinary, your child is going to create a good impression. If you are thinking about how to style your kid’s hair, then here are some cool ways:
- Kids’ styling gel
No matter how difficult the hair is to manage, kids’ mess-free styling gel can set it well. You can use such styling products for kids to create different styles, such as spikes, braids, buns, or ponytails, even for frizzy and unruly hair.
- Trendy haircut
Most kids have decent hair growth. So, it is a good idea to give them a trendy haircut to keep their hair looking fantastic always. A new and fresh haircut always adds on to the personality.
How To Choose The Right Hair Gel For Kids?
If you plan to buy toddler hair gels, but you are clueless about what points to consider, here are a few things that you should look for.
- Ingredients: This is the most significant point to consider. When it comes to your kids, you must use a completely chemical-free hair gel. It should contain no parabens, no gluten, no toxins. Look for natural products that contain organic ingredients and extracts like chamomile, aloe vera, jojoba, olive oil, witch hazel, etc., as they soothe and nourish the hair.
Alicia Igess, an award-winning stylist and the founder of Urban Tangles, a multicultural hair and makeup studio, says, “It is important to look at the ingredient list when buying a hair gel for your kids. You may also consult an expert to know if your child has any allergies to any ingredients in skincare and hair care products.”
- Clinically tested: Hairstyling gels for kids must always be dermatologically tested to avoid any skin allergies. Go with products that are hypoallergenic to keep your baby’s skin protected.
- Hairstyle choices: The choice of hairstyling gel would depend upon the kind of hairstyle you wish for your child. Whether you are looking for a strong, medium, or low hold would depend on the style that you desire for their hair.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which styling gel is the best for kids?
Any hair gel made specifically for children using safe ingredients that does not contain any harmful chemicals like parabens or phthalates can be considered suitable for kids. A hair gel with a mild formula that is clinically tested can also keep the hair and scalp safe from allergies.
2. Are there any side effects of hair gel?
Frequent usage of hair gel can strip away the moisture from the hair due to the presence of alcohol, leaving the locks dehydrated. They can also end up making your hair look frizzy and difficult to maintain.
3. Is it okay to use hair gel every day?
You can use the best gel on toddler hair on a daily basis as long as you remove the product residue from the hair at the end of the day so that your hair is less prone to any sort of damage. However, skipping it a day or two from time to time would be a good idea to keep your hair healthy.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Poulami Nag is a beauty and personal care enthusiast. A writer and product reviewer, her skills lie in presenting highly research-driven and detailed content to help you choose the right products. In this post, she has curated a list of the best hair gels for kids. She provides analytical information regarding the ingredients and directions of each product to help you choose a suitable one for your child.
The Bottom Line
There are a variety of kids’ hair gels to choose from in the market, but the styling gel you want to pick for your little munchkin would be subjective to your child’s needs. No matter which hair gel you shop for, you should always prefer a product that contains all-natural ingredients and is entirely vegan so that it doesn’t harm sensitive skin. Our top recommendations include the vitamin-enriched Little Roseberry Hair Gel For Kids, which nourishes the hair strands, and the Hip Peas Natural Hair Styling Balm for a gentle hold. The Curly Kids Curly Gel Moisturizer seems ideal for curly hair. However, always opt for a toddler hair gel that is non-sticky, non-greasy, and promises shiny and smooth hair.
Infographic: Tips To Follow When Using Hair Gels On Children
Hair gels can be a helpful tool for styling children’s hair and keeping it in place. However, it’s important to use hair gels safely and carefully to avoid damaging your child’s hair or causing irritation to their scalp. Look at the infographic below for points to consider when using hair gels on your child. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Aloe vera: A short review
https://www.e-ijd.org/article.asp?issn=0019-5154;year=2008;volume=53;issue=4;spage=163;epage=166;aulast=Surjushe - Nutrition for Hair Regrowth
https://www.sutterhealth.org/ask-an-expert/answers/nutrition-for-hair-regrowth - Klaudija Sebetić et al.; (2008); UV damage of the hair
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19138021/
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